As the fourth largest state in the United States, with 3881 named mountains, Montana is fortunate to be home to the top majestic waterfalls in America.
Fortunately for all who reside or visit our crystal-clear lakes and streams, vast ranches, and mountain ranges, there are endless opportunities to find uncrowded, off-the-beaten-path experiences—including the following details about Montana’s majestic waterfalls that await your discovery!
We took a poll in our real estate office in Flathead Lake to identify our team’s most memorable waterfall experiences. And now, here’s the list of some of Montana’s top waterfalls under the Big Sky.
Here’s an important note: To visit the waterfalls in Glacier National Park, you will need a reservation. Book early and visit Glacier.org for all the details.
Top Waterfalls in Montana
Glacier National Park
This is one of the easiest to hike to within our entire list. If you are staying at Many Glacier Campground or the Many Glacier Hotel, or just visiting the park for the day, pack a picnic and head to the parking lot of Many Glacier Hotel. You can park off the road, or if the parking area there is full, we recommend you just park at the hotel, go down the road, and follow the trailhead, which starts just over the Swiftcurrent River bridge. The trail is less than a half-file so it’s a super easy trek that all will enjoy.
Glacier National Park
This is another easy option for families. It starts from the St. Mary Falls Shuttle Stop, where you should park and prepare for a hike to some of the park’s most spectacular sights. Look for the Trailhead, which is about a quarter of a mile from the shuttle area. There are THREE waterfalls, which makes this a busy trail yet worth every step!
Glacier National Park
If you decide to do more research on this one, you can also look for the name ‘Trick Falls.” It’s another perfect option for families, and it, too, has a well-maintained trail for strollers and wheelchairs. Trip Advisor had an excellent description: Running Eagle Falls is a highlight of a trip to Two Medicine. In the spring, water rushes over the upper fall so thick that the lower fall is completely hidden.
Palisade Falls, Hyalite Recreation Area
Bozeman, Montana
Here is another magnificent way to enjoy life under the Big Sky in the Hyalite Recreation Area, especially during the heat of the summer. First, enjoy a picnic at the start of the trailhead and then stroll to the back of the reservoir where the trail begins on the edge of the East Fork of the Hyalite Creek. Follow the tributary for about half a mile to a bridge where the towering waterfall will take your breath away. Here’s another reason why our family at Hollinger Real Estate in Bigfork, Montana, recommends this option: the trail is in super shape, so those with wheelchairs, strollers, or walkers can easily maneuver on the mostly paved path. One of this trek’s biggest bonuses is that within this region, the falls and dense forest will keep you cool during Montana’s summer months. It’s also popular in the wintertime for cross-country skiers and snowshoers.
Libby, Montana
If finding a waterfall with jaw dropping views, head to Libby to seek out Kootenai Falls. It’s one of the northwest’s largest free-flowing waters with 30-foot-high waterfalls worthy of all the photographs we have taken over the years. What is so amazing about Kootenai Falls is that you get the best-of-all-world views that start with a calm, meandering river and then drop 90 feet in less than a mile stretch. Our kids love the ‘swinging bridge,’ too, which is the best place to take in some of the best Mother Nature in Montana.
Gallatin Gateway, Montana
Here is another easy and stunning stroll for all to enjoy in the heart of Big Sky. The trail meanders along the West and South Forks of the Gallatin River, where you should watch for the trailhead called Yellow Mules Trail. There are actually four routes to the trail, and depending on what you want to see, you can choose from the following: The far-right fork leads to the towering South Fork Overlook; the inner-right fork leads to the top of the Falls via a natural footpath; the straight path leads to the base of the waterfall, with a picnic area and pool; and the left path leads to the rocky Ousel Falls Overlook.
Big Timber, Montana
High in the Absaroka Mountains, the Boulder River (which is a tributary of the Yellowstone River) offers this main attraction for those who just can’t get enough sights of the best waterfalls in Montana. In addition to its impressive water flow, this region is a favorite for camping, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of the Treasure State.
Seeley Lake, Montana
This hike is at the top of our list of things to do EVERY summer! Morrell Lake and the breathtaking Morrell Falls are within the Swan River Mountain Range. The creek within this piece of paradise in Montana is the showcase as it cascades down a spectacular 90-foot DOUBLE waterfall. You can access this excursion through Seely Lake. See the directions here—and be sure to keep your eyes open—it’s Grizzly territory.
Bozeman, Montana
Located within the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, just outside of Bozeman, the trail leading to Pioneer Falls is another gentle three-mile walk or hike. It’s one of the most popular spots along the South Fork of the Spanish Creek to stop and enjoy a picnic, put your toes in the cool mountain streams and lake, and have a full day unplugged and plugged into nature. At the trail’s end, there’s a 450-foot ascent to the edge of the falls, where the 40-foot cascading waterfall will take your breath away.
Condon, Montana
Something magical about the Holland Lake region brings us back every year. Whether we have a fishing rod in hand, jump in to cool off during the summer months, or paddle our kayaks into a Montana sunset, the Lake is a place to escape from our busy lives. Within this majestic setting is a simple 3-mile trail that runs along the shoreline and ends at Holland Lake Falls.
If you ever want to plan a classic Montana vacation, this spot is it. Make your reservation early at the Holland Lake Lodge or campground, and let the best of Montana make it one of your best vacations, yet!
Want More Insight About the Last Best Place?
Hollinger Real Estate in Northwest Montana is here to help you discover sights like these that are a short, scenic drive from many of the lakefront homes and condominiums that are for sale in Montana. We always enjoy the opportunity to personally show you what is on the market today and our favorite spots to unwind in the Last Best Place!
